Singapore’s public housing landscape is set for intriguing additions with the upcoming launch of BTO flats in two high-profile locations—the former Keppel Club site within the Greater Southern Waterfront (GSW), and Toa Payoh West, a mature town near the city centre. These two developments form part of the government’s ongoing commitment to expanding accessible public housing options while enhancing the liveability and biodiversity of new estates.
A Landmark Launch at Keppel Club: First BTO at Greater Southern Waterfront
Come October 2025, approximately 1,000 BTO flats will be released at the former Keppel Club site. This marks the first public housing launch within the 48-hectare plot, which has long been earmarked as a cornerstone of the GSW vision.
This initial BTO project will comprise a mix of 2-room flexi, 3-room, and 4-room flats, alongside public rental units—a clear indication of the government’s inclusive housing approach. Building heights will range from 19 to 46 storeys, offering residents panoramic views of the waterfront while maximising land efficiency.
The estate will sit adjacent to Berlayer Creek, one of Singapore’s last two remaining southern mangroves, and is designed with a deep sensitivity to its ecological and historical context. Minister for National Development Desmond Lee highlighted the area’s maritime past, referencing Batu Berlayar (Sailing Rock), a 14th-century navigational marker once located nearby.
More than 20% of the site—roughly 10 hectares—will be preserved for parks and open spaces. A series of green corridors and landscaped terraces will be integrated to facilitate ecological movement, create habitats, and sustain biodiversity. These features were informed by a formal environmental study and feedback from nature groups, ensuring that the estate aligns with broader ecological goals under the GSW master plan.
In terms of amenities, future residents can expect a preschool, nature-themed playground, and direct access to the Labrador Park and Telok Blangah MRT stations via walking trails, reinforcing the site’s connectivity to the Circle Line (CCL) and wider city network.
Ultimately, this launch will form part of the 6,000 HDB flats and 3,000 private homes to be developed across the full Keppel Club site. The introduction of public housing here signals the government’s intent to bring inclusive, affordable living options to one of Singapore’s most coveted districts, while ensuring long-term sustainability.
Prime Location, Mature Setting: Toa Payoh West BTO in July 2025
Before the GSW launch, another BTO project will be rolled out in July 2025 at Toa Payoh Town (West), offering about 740 flats at the junction of Toa Payoh Rise and Braddell Rise.
Located within a mature estate, this development is within a 5-minute walk from Caldecott MRT station and near Braddell MRT—making it especially attractive for buyers seeking convenience and connectivity. The site is also situated next to Lighthouse School and close to neighbourhood amenities like hawker centres and shops.
The upcoming estate will feature a mix of 2-room flexi, 3-room, and 4-room units, along with an eating house, preschool, and retail shops integrated into the precinct. This ensures that future residents will enjoy a self-contained, walkable neighbourhood environment, reflecting the latest trends in HDB town planning.
Strategic Urban Planning for Affordability and Inclusivity
These launches come as part of a broader national plan. The government aims to roll out approximately 19,600 new flats in 2025, and over 50,000 flats between 2025 and 2027, across both mature and non-mature towns. July’s BTO exercise alone will feature flats across seven locations, including Bukit Merah, Bukit Panjang, Clementi, Sembawang, Tampines, and Woodlands.
Minister Desmond Lee reiterated that these efforts are central to the government’s goal of making housing “affordable, inclusive and accessible” to Singaporeans. Building new homes nearer to the city centre allows families to live closer to elderly parents or workplaces, enabling intergenerational support while reducing commute times—factors that are increasingly valued by modern households.
While the government has not confirmed whether the Keppel Club flats will fall under the Prime category, early indicators suggest a strong case. The site’s proximity to the CBD, waterfront views, and integration into the GSW blueprint are consistent with previous Prime launches. Should the flats be classified as Prime, buyers can expect more subsidies paired with tighter resale and rental restrictions, such as the 10-year Minimum Occupation Period (MOP) and subsidy clawbacks.
Conclusion
Together, the launches at the Keppel Club site and Toa Payoh West reflect a shift in public housing strategy—bringing accessibility and affordability into historically exclusive or mature areas without compromising on quality of life or ecological integrity.
As housing demand evolves and land scarcity intensifies, the ability to introduce thoughtfully planned public housing into prime or central locations will play a pivotal role in shaping Singapore’s urban fabric for the next generation.
Whether you’re exploring your first home, planning a strategic move, or simply staying informed about Singapore’s evolving housing landscape, reach out to us for personalised advice and insights tailored to your needs.
